Polyvinyl butyral (PVB) (40-70cps, 18-21% PVOH) is a medium-viscosity polyvinyl butyral grade used as a film-forming polymer for cosmetic systems that need a flexible, continuous, alcohol-compatible film.

This grade is suitable when a formula needs stronger body and a more substantial film than lower-viscosity PVB grades, while still keeping the characteristic flexibility, adhesion, and clear-film potential associated with PVB in solvent-based systems.

With 18-21% residual hydroxyl functionality from PVOH, it is generally used where formulators want a balance of film integrity, cohesion, and solvent processability in styling, fixing, or protective film applications.

Product Description: Polyvinyl Butyral is a synthetic film former supplied here as a white to light off-white flake powder. In cosmetic and personal care formulation, it is mainly useful in solvent-borne or hydroalcoholic systems where a flexible polymer film is desired rather than a brittle residue. Compared with a lower-viscosity PVB grade, this 40-70 cps range is generally better suited to formulas that need more solution body, stronger hold, or a slightly more substantial deposited film. Practical performance still depends on solvent choice, polymer level, plasticizer package, and total resin balance in the finished formula.

Usage: Suitable for hair styling and setting products, film-forming cosmetic bases, peel-type systems, and other personal care formulas where a flexible polymer film is needed.

Mixing method:

- Pre-dissolve into a suitable alcohol or compatible organic solvent system with steady agitation until the flakes are fully wetted and dissolved.

- Add to the solvent phase before final viscosity adjustment; higher polymer loading and lower solvent power will slow dissolution.

- Check clarity, drying profile, tack, and final film feel in the actual solvent/plasticizer system because these factors strongly affect finished performance.

Usage rate: 0.1-20%

Product characteristics: White to light off-white flake powder; low odor.

Solubility: Slightly soluble in water; soluble in alcohols and ketones. Best suited to solvent-borne or hydroalcoholic film systems rather than simple water-only systems.

Storage: Store tightly closed at room temperature, protected from direct heat and light. When kept properly sealed and dry, the material typically remains suitable for at least 24 months.

INCI Name: Polyvinyl Butyral